Apt it is that the Cadillac Escala Concept was designed by an Australian because this V8 liftback previews the design of next-generation Caddys that will likely lob on our shores.

Following a false dawn in 2008 – just as the GFC hit – General Motors’ American luxury brand is likely to return here by around 2020 just as the fruits of former VT Commodore designer and now head of Cadillac design, Australian-born Andrew Smith, are realised.

Smith led the design of the Escala, a rakish four-door large liftback that extends further than a Holden Caprice at 5347mm long and which was just unveiled at the Monterey Car Week.

Cadillac Escala Concept rear side

The Escala is no pipe-dream concept, featuring a 4.2-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine that Cadillac says is, “A prototype of a new system in development for future Cadillac model.”

Cadillac Escala Concept rear seats

“Depending on the development of market segment for large luxury sedans, Escala is a potential addition to our existing product plan.”

Cadillac Escala Concept side

“Escala is an expressive symbol of reward and an exhilarating driving experience. On the interior, we pushed further … to break the rules a little bit, exactly what Cadillac should do from time to time.”

Cadillac Escala Concept front interior

Cadillac’s current passenger car lineup includes the 3 Series-rivalling ATS, 5 Series-sized CTS and 7 Series-challenging CT6, all available with twin-turbocharged or supercharged V6 or V8 engines driving the rear wheels.